Family time is the best time and if you have more than one child, you know how precious it is to enjoy time spent together with everyone. However, there is something profoundly enriching about enjoying time with each of your children individually and truly savoring the unique qualities that makes them who they are. Investing in one-on-one moments is so incredibly valuable for many reasons. Regardless of age, children want to know that they matter. They thrive when they feel seen, when they know they are cherished for who they are and not just as part of the family unit. Away from the noise of siblings, kids are oftentimes more likely to open up about their thoughts, worries, and aspirations, which allows for more intentional conversation and strengthens the emotional bond with their parents. It can also be incredibly beneficial for parents to be able to let go of personal expectations and appreciate each child for who they are (not who you want them to be). Here are a few tips and ideas for making the most of one-on-one time.

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Tips for meaningful one-on-one moments:

1. Schedule it- Consistency shows commitment and communicates to your child that they are valuable. Even if it’s just an hour every other week, mark your calendar and guard the time.

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2. Let them lead- Ask your child what they would like to do (or if it is a younger child, plan something you know they would take delight in). You might be surprised at how simple their desires are (taking a walk around the block, building something together, or grabbing an ice cream cone).

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3. Focus on presence- Put away your phone, forget about the to-do list, and really savor the moment. Look them in the eyes, give them your undivided attention, and notice the little things they say or do. Show them just how much you enjoy them.

1. Celebrate the differences- Your children may have all the same genetic material, but chances are they do not all operate the same. One might be more talkative, another more reflective. One may crave adventure, the other may prefer the safety of routine. Fight against the natural instinct to compare or the desire to conform and instead recognize and honor the way they were created in the image of God to reflect Him in valuable and unique ways.

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• Toddlers (1-3 years):  
  
  • Nature walk
  • Color, paint, or chalk together
  • Treat date

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• Preschool/Early Elementary:
  
  • Bake a goodie together
  • Picnic at a park
  • Build a fort and have some quality time in it
  • Scavenger hunt

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• Tweens:
  
  • Bike ride (with a fun destination)
  • Craft or building project (learn to knit or work with leather together)
  • Play a game or do a puzzle together
  • Go to a movie

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• Teenagers:
  
  • Coffee or lunch date
  • Help with a passion project
  • Volunteer together
  • Late-night talks over tea and a cookie
  • Go shopping (let them pick the music while you drive)

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